ICYMI: Florida Man Steals Ambulance for Joyride—Finishes His Beer As Cops Close In!
A Florida hospital visit turned into a wild late-night pursuit when one disgruntled patient decided to make his own transportation arrangements. 🌐 #News #TampaFL #Florida #Crime
TAMPA, FL — A two-day drinking binge took an unexpected detour Saturday night when a Florida man allegedly commandeered an ambulance after being denied a free ride home from the hospital.
Beer Run Gone Wrong
Michael J. Esquilin, 43, faces multiple charges after authorities say he swiped a Tampa Fire Rescue ambulance from HCA South Tampa hospital around 8:30 p.m. Rather than quietly surrendering when Florida Highway Patrol troopers spotted him just minutes later, Esquilin allegedly chose to extend his joyride.
A Trail of Traffic Violations
Law enforcement reports that the suspect ignored attempts to pull him over, blazing through stop signs with the emergency lights switched off. The situation intensified when he allegedly began driving against traffic, narrowly avoiding collisions with oncoming vehicles.
One Last Drink
When Tampa police finally cornered the ambulance at South Hubert Avenue and West Empedrado Street, Esquilin wasn’t quite ready to end his adventure. Officers say he took time to finish his beer before gripping the steering wheel, resisting their attempts to remove him from the vehicle.
The Aftermath
According to law enforcement, Esquilin later explained his actions stemmed from frustration after paramedics declined to give him a ride home, following what he described as a 48-hour drinking session.
He now faces serious charges including burglary, grand theft of an emergency vehicle, fleeing and eluding, a fourth or subsequent DUI violation, and habitual driving without a license. Esquilin remains in Hillsborough County Jail without bond.
As with all criminal cases, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
As a thank you for reading this article, enjoy 25% off our new Feel Good Stories eBook. Do you have an uplifting story or fascinating news tip? Email us! news@jackandkitty.com.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Florida | Weird News
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
Your opinion matters! Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We love hearing from you!
